Senator Mattera And Assemblyman Fitzpatrick Smithtown Parkland Swap Now Law

Senator Mario R. Mattera (2nd Senate District) and Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick (8th Assembly District) announced that legislation (S.8048) they jointly sponsored to provide needed parkland to the Town of Smithtown has been signed into law. The signing will help provide better recreational use around the head of the Nissequogue River.

This legislation, which was passed as part of a cooperative effort between Town of Smithtown Supervisor Edward Wehrheim and Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, facilitates a swap of parkland between the Town and the County. According to the agreement, the Town will receive land at the Paul T. Givens Park in exchange for Bill Richards Town Park.

This swap will further the efforts of the Town of Smithtown to improve the area around the former Oasis Gentlemen's Club to make it a usable park for all residents. As part of their commitment to the residents, the Town plans to use the land it has now acquired to provide a public space that will provide all access to the Nissequogue River.

While the land that is exchanged would be required to be maintained by the County and Town respectively, the legislation specifies that the parkland and facilities will be accessible to all New York State residents regardless of where they reside. This will ensure that everyone will be able to enjoy this new parkland.

“This swap will enable both the County and the Town to utilize this land to its fullest potential and that will benefit everyone we jointly represent. This is one more example of the work that Supervisor Wehrheim and County Executive Bellone continue to do to enhance our region and it was great to work with them and their staff to make this a reality.  Thank you to Assemblyman Fitzpatrick for his partnership in this effort and I look forward to the great things the Town will do with this new parkland,” stated Senator Mattera.

“It was great to work closely with elected officials on the Town, County and State levels to make this important land swap a reality.  This legislation is the culmination of a truly cooperative effort by all involved. This is a win-win for everybody and will benefit all the residents of our area who enjoy the great outdoors,” said Assemblyman Fitzpatrick.

“This parkland swap, a win-win for both the county and the town, will allow us to extend our beautiful trail network from Blydenburgh County Park into Bill Richards Park,” said Suffolk County Executive Bellone. “This will not only give our residents more room for their favorite recreational activities, it will also allow the Town of Smithtown to improve the area around the head of the Nissequogue River.”

“We’re incredibly grateful and commend Senator Mario Mattera and Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick for the tireless efforts put forth in ensuring this legislation was signed into law. We’re eager to begin renovations which will protect the Nissequogue Headwaters from stormwater runoff, in addition to improving the waterfront park, canoe launch and access for all New Yorkers. Upon completion, Smithtown will be home to a stunning refuge for humans and nature alike across from our historic Bull Monument,” added Supervisor Wehrheim.

The new law went into effect immediately.